Plan your travel: Thamarassery ghat pass undergoes necessary PWD roadworks

Thamarassery (Kerala): Traffic restrictions will be imposed at Thamarassery ghat pass from Monday as the Public Works Department (PWD) National Highways section resumes work ahead of the widening and renovation of hairpin bends six, seven and eight.

The work includes the removal of fallen trees along the National Highway and repairs to damaged road stretches at the pass. During the daytime, trees will be loaded onto lorries using cranes, while road maintenance will be carried out simultaneously, prompting the need for traffic curbs.

PWD NH authorities had written to the Thamarassery Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) last week, requesting traffic diversions in view of the expected congestion during the works.

As per the restrictions, multi-axle and other heavy vehicles will be diverted via Nadukani ghat pass or Kuttiyadi ghat pass during the day. Passenger vehicles have been advised to use the route before 8 am and after 6 pm to ensure smooth progress of the works and minimise inconvenience to commuters.

M. Saleem, Assistant Engineer, PWD National Highways Sub-Division, Koduvally, said the combined works are expected to be completed within four to five days, subject to weather conditions.

Meanwhile, traffic congestion continued on the ghat road due to a surge in vehicles during the Christmas holiday season. The violations by multi-axle heavy vehicles during restricted hours and lane indiscipline added to the problem.

Severe traffic snarls were reported at Thamarassery ghat pass from midnight on Saturday until Sunday afternoon, leaving motorists stranded for hours.